GOLDEN — A tentative agreement that calls for a 2.7 percent salary increase has been reached between the Jefferson County Schools and its teachers union, it was announced today.
Teachers also will earn an additional .5 percent salary increase if the district decides to pursue a mill levy election in November and the measure is approved by voters.
The contract must be approved by the Jefferson County Board of Education and ratified by the Jefferson County Education Association.
The tentative pact, which would be effective Sept. 1, includes annual increases for years of service and educational credits.
To address teacher workload concerns, $1.4 million will be set aside to use for paraprofessional support or other strategies.
Administrators and teachers in each school will decide how to most effectively spend the money on workload relief.
The district also will contribute an additional .9 percent to the Public Employees’ Retirement Association.
“This is a fair settlement that reflects the success of our teachers in managing the dramatically increasing expectations for our schools,” said superintendent Cindy Stevenson.
JCEA president Nancy Henderson said the salary increase will allow the district to remain competitive in recruiting high-quality teachers.
“We are also encouraged that the school district recognizes the need for additional resources to help teachers manage all the mandated programs and the extra demands on their professional time,” Henderson said.
Ann Schrader: 303-278-3217 or aschrader@denverpost.com.
